How to reduce sports injuries by buying the right equipment

Sports injuries are a common problem for both adults and kids. However, buying the right sports equipment can make a difference by preventing or reducing injuries.

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When you are searching for the right sports equipment, price should not be the only factor. You also have to consider safety and comfort. By choosing the best sports equipment, you can reduce injuries and prevent health problems before they start.

Understand injury risks

Sports can help you lose weight and stay in shape, but they can also increase the risk of injuries such as sprains or strains. The wrong equipment can create new health problems or aggravate previous conditions. Protective equipment is important, but you also have to consider the other items that players will use.

The American Academy of Pediatrics explains, “The most frequent types of sports injuries are sprains (injuries to ligaments) strains (injuries to muscles), and stress fractures (injuries to bones). Injury occurs when excessive stress is placed on tendons, joints, bones and muscle. In a growing child, point tenderness over a bone should be evaluated further by a medical provider even if there is minimal swelling or limitation in motion. Contact your pediatrician if you have additional questions or concerns.”

Pay attention to details

It is important to pay attention to details when you are buying sports equipment. For example, when you are choosing bats for softball, you have to consider weight, grip and other factors. The measurements of the bat also matter and need to be the right size for the player. In addition, you have to think about if a balanced or end-loaded bat is a better option.

“One common debate between ballplayers is the benefit of balanced bats versus end-loaded sticks. Balanced bats swing more evenly and can give a bit more control as the bat will feel lighter with the weight more evenly distributed. End-loaded bats, on the other hand, feel like the end is weighted and thus you will feel like you are whipping the bat head around like a sling. This also teaches players to lead with their hands and throw the bat head forward with the top hand,” explains the Planet of Baseball.

Focus on fit

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It is tempting to use secondhand sports equipment because it is cheaper. However, it must be the right fit, so custom equipment may be a better choice. In addition, you may need to change equipment if you gain or lose weight because it may not fit. The right items will fit snugly without being too tight and will not restrict movement. All the pieces, from the right socks to the right helmets, have to be picked out carefully.

Get safety gear

You know that helmets are a requirement for many sports including football, softball and others. However, they are just one part of the safety gear that may be required for your team. Protective eyewear, mouth guards, shin guards and other products may be necessary. You may need elbow, wrist, knee, thigh or shoulder guards.

Again, the temptation to repurpose items such as helmets for different sports is common. However, using a helmet that is designed for football while playing baseball can increase the risk of injuries and may create more problems.

Get the right shoes

Many injuries can be prevented by getting the right footwear and making sure the fit is perfect. Both adults and kids trip and fall while playing sports, but better footwear can increase grip and stop some of these issues. Although children need new shoes more often, adults also have to pay attention to their footwear and update it frequently. Shoes need to offer arch support and cushioning. In addition, nonskid treads or soles may be necessary for indoor sports.

Consider eye protection

Eye protection may be necessary for some sports. From goggles to face masks, there are multiple ways to protect your eyes during a game. If you wear glasses, you may need to switch to prescription polycarbonate goggles that will not shatter. The type of eye protection you choose should have cushioning for the nose and eyebrows if they are covered. It also has to be comfortable and fit well, so it does not slide off your face during a game.

Reduce sports injuries by buying the right equipment

The right sports equipment may reduce or prevent injuries. From focusing on the best fit to getting the right safety gear, you can try to stop injuries from occurring. Your equipment plays a big part in your ability to stay safe.